
Bert Berns
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Year:
2016
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Inducted by:
Steven Van Zandt (E Street Band)
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Category:
Ahmet Ertegun Award
Introduction
Life’s too short not to be a music industry mogul.
Or so believed Bert Berns, co-founder of Bang Records, songwriter of “Twist and Shout” and the man who discovered Van Morrison. His work may tragically have been cut short, but the hits he made have tremendous staying power.

Steven Van Zandt Inducts Bert Berns
Steven Van Zandt Inducts Bert Berns at the 2016 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony-
Steven Van Zandt Inducts Bert Berns00:03:19
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Brett and Cassie Berns Accept on Behalf of Bert Berns00:03:16
Hall of Fame Essay
2016
Bert Berns can’t be easily explained in a few words.
He was a consummate record man who died at age 38 in 1967, after seven years in the record business. He left behind a wife, three small children, and many bereaved friends and associates who loved and looked up to him.
He also left behind a number of angry enemies. Some of them remain pissed to this day.


incredible songwriter, producer, and label boss
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Photography: Getty/WireImage